US President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that the airspace over and around Venezuela is now considered fully closed, escalating the growing standoff between Washington and Caracas.
In a statement posted on Truth Social, Trump warned:
“To all Airlines, Pilots, Drug Dealers, and Human Traffickers, please consider THE AIRSPACE ABOVE AND SURROUNDING VENEZUELA TO BE CLOSED IN ITS ENTIRETY.”
The announcement follows a series of alerts issued by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which last week cautioned major airlines about a “potentially hazardous situation” due to intensifying security concerns and heightened military activity in and around Venezuela.
Venezuela Revokes Airline Permissions
In response to suspended flight operations by several carriers, the Venezuelan government revoked operating rights for six major international airlines. These airlines had halted services after the FAA warned that deteriorating conditions made Venezuelan airspace unsafe.
As tensions rise, Venezuelan officials have accused Washington of plotting to destabilize the government of President Nicolás Maduro, who has held power since 2013.
US Military Presence Grows in the Caribbean
Reports of impending US action have circulated for weeks, coinciding with a notable buildup of American military forces in the Caribbean. According to two US officials, covert operations are expected to form the initial phase of any new measures targeting the Maduro government.
The officials also confirmed that options under review include efforts to remove Maduro from power, echoing long-standing accusations from the Venezuelan leader that the US aims to force him out. Maduro has repeatedly stated that both the Venezuelan public and the military will resist any attempt to unseat him.
Airlines Cancel Flights After Safety Alert
Following the FAA’s renewed warning, at least three international airlines cancelled flights departing from Venezuela on Saturday, citing safety risks associated with the escalating military environment.
A Crisis Deepens
The tightening of airspace, growing military deployments, and a surge in diplomatic rhetoric mark one of the most serious escalations in US-Venezuelan relations in recent years. While Washington frames its actions as necessary for regional security, Caracas views them as preparations for external aggression.
Further developments are expected as the situation continues to evolve.